DOM celebrates Buddha Purnima, gives message of unity and tolerance

JAMMU, 16.05.22: Dalit OBC Minority (DOM), a wing of All India Confederation of SC/ST/OBC Organisations celebrated the Buddha Purnima at Ambedkar Chowk, jammu today. People from all faiths joined the celebration. Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Buddhists, Christians and others came together to garland the statue of Buddha and offer prayers.

RK Kalsotra, Chairperson DOM and President Confederation, said that Buddha Purnima is celebrated as the birthday of Gautam Budhha, the founder of Buddhism. The public holiday for Buddha Purnima in India was initiated by B. R. Ambedkar when he was the minister of law and justice. Since then, a national holiday is observed on this day. BR Ambedkar also chose Buddhism as his religion during his last years and the reason for that was its egalitarian nature and ideals of tolerance.
Kalsotra said that Lord Buddha has given us various lessons. These include the four noble truths, the truth of suffering, the truth of the cause of suffering, the truth of the end of suffering, and the truth of the path that leads to the end of suffering or the eightfold path, ashta marga. Moreover, Buddha’s message of tolerance, unity, brotherhood and fraternity became more relevant in today’s world when these fabrics are being destroyed. As the Constitution of India guarantees freedom of religion under Article 25 and 26 as fundamental rights, such festivals should be promoted more and celebrated with pomp and show.

Kalsotra further added that people from all faiths came together today to observe the celebration and spread the message of tolerance and unity which is seemingly under threat.

Des Raj Bodh said that Lord Buddha’s message becomes extremely relevant and is being celebrated by people cutting across the religious boundaries. Since Ambedkar embraced this religion, it has become an important religion for the emancipation of the lower castes.

Ashu Peter Mattoo, President, All J&K Christian Sabha greets the people on the occasion to follow the principles of Lord Budha to maintain brotherhood and respect every religion. Ashraf Ali also greets the people on Buddha Purnima. Sweets is also distributed amongst participants.

Others who greeted were Tashi Taering, Nawang Sonam, Mridul, Shashi Syal, Dr Karn Gupta, Roshan Lal Bodh. Kartar Chand, Krishan Lal Bodh , Tilak Kalsotra and Raj Kumar Raja.